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Romney backs Boston Olympics (AP)

Mitt Romney, the former Massachusetts governor and Republican presidential candidate, has backed Boston as a potential bid city to host the 2024 Olympics, but warned that the event would not make money.

“I would love to see the Games come back to the United States and I think Boston would be the best imaginable place to have them,” Romney told the Boston Herald. “I can’t speak out of school, and it’s far too early to judge the interest of the USOC or IOC. But it’s certainly worth exploring. I think Boston would be fantastic.”

Romney went on to explain that there would be some logistical and financial challenges.

“The financial commitment is real, and properly managed, the Games could break even or leave a small endowment to maintain the facilities,” Romney said. “It’s really not a money-making opportunity. Instead it’s a chance to serve the world and welcome the world.”

[In full disclosure, I worked for Romney at the Salt Lake Organizing Committee for the 2002 Olympic Winter Games]

Romney, who famously saved the 2002 Salt Lake Olympics from financial oblivion after being mired for years in a bribery scandal, said he would offer his help and advice, and has already reached out to some people.

“I certainly would be delighted to offer my suggestions and help to the people organizing,” Romney said. “I have been in touch with [Suffolk Construction CEO] John Fish. He and I have spoken in some length. I’ve spoken (with people) at the United States Olympic Committee. I think it’s very intriguing.”

Romney says Boston is a good fit for the Olympics because of its professional and college sports venues, and suggested any shortage of accommodations could be solved by docking cruise ships in Boston Harbor, similar to what Athens Olympics organizers did.

He added that Boston would need to build an Olympic village, a track and field stadium to host opening and closing ceremonies, and improve the mass transit system.